From The Gemology Project
Announcements
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- International times: 11 PM London, 12 PM Paris, 3 PM Los Angeles, 6 PM New York and 8 AM Melbourne (Sunday).
- This week we will discuss inclusions.
- This week's topic: polarization.
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Welcome to The Gemology Project
The Gemology Project is a joined effort to bundle as much gemological information as possible and to distribute that knowledge, without cost, to anyone interested in what keeps us awake.
In the spotlights: Aquamarine
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Aquamarine is a pastel greenish-blue variety of the mineral beryl and owes its color to the presence of iron impurities. Its name is derived from the Latin words for water (aqua) and sea (marine). Crystals form in large hexagonal prisms. In ancient times, it was believed that sailors wearing aquamarine pendants would be protected from the perils of the sea. The stone symbolized happiness and eternal youth. It was viewed in Christian symbolism to bring moderation and control of passions to its owner .. more
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Book of the month
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Gems by Michael O'Donoghue
Already in its 6th edition, this book is considered by many as the Gemology Bible.
Although Gems is not sold at a low level entry price, this 936 pages book is a must have for every serious gemologist.
In this revised edition by the renowed gemologist Michael O'Donoghue almost every gemological topic, from geological formation to synthesation, is covered indepth.
This comprehensive work should be the first gem book in your ever expanding library.
Support The Gemology Project and buy it safe from Amazon
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Featured article: Polariscope
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The polariscope may be one of the most underestimated tools in gemology. Most gemologists use it to quickly determine if the stone at hand is isotropic or anisotropic or, at best, to determine the optic character of gemstones. With some small additions, one can determine both optic character and the optic sign of a gemstone. It is also the preferred tool -- next to the microscope -- for separating synthetic amethyst from its natural counterparts (although with recent synthetics that may prove difficult).
In addition, the polariscope may be very useful for distinguishing solid inclusions from negative inclusions as well as for spotting polysynthetic twinning .. more
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